Reliance Embarks on Herbal Beverage Era Through Naturedge JV

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Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL), the FMCG arm of Reliance Industries, has acquired a majority stake in a joint venture with Naturedge Beverages Pvt Ltd., marking its entry into the rapidly expanding herbal-functional beverages category.

Consumer preference is trending decisively toward health-forward, natural drink options. RCPL’s move aligns with this shift, offering strategic leverage via Naturedge’s zero-sugar, Ayurveda-based brand Shunya, known for real herbal ingredients like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Kokum, and Green Tea.

RCPL expands its ambition to become a “total beverage company,” building on prior wins like Campa and RasKik. “Shunya has gained wide popularity among health-conscious consumers,” said RCPL Executive Director Ketan Mody, emphasizing the fit with the firm’s mission to deliver quality, affordable, and heritage-inspired products.

From Naturedge’s perspective, this JV is a catalyst for scaling. Siddhesh Sharma, director, noted that “super-herbs like Ashwagandha and Brahmi… boost strength, stamina, and focus,” and RCPL’s distribution muscle is key to realizing a pan-India rollout.

Industry watchers also see this expanding RCPL’s portfolio at a time when India’s healthy drinks market is expected to grow at nearly 12% CAGR, heading from $9.6 billion in 2024 toward $28 billion by 2033.

With RCPL’s venture into herbal-functional drinks, Reliance marries Ayurveda’s legacy with modern consumer demand. This strategic blend of heritage, health, and scale positions it to lead India’s next beverage wave.